history 2055 september 5 - Colonial America in the 17th...

Colonial America in the 17 th Century Settlements to Colonies: An Overview-The first colonization efforts were made by Spain – St. Augustine, Florida-The real successes come from France and England o France holds its colonies in Canada until 1760’s when it loses control of all of Canada to England o First English efforts succeed in Jamestown  Warrior Settlement  Intended to be fortress outpost on the James River (empties into Chesapeake Bay)  Started by the Virginia Settlement  John Smith was chosen to be the leader of expedition because of his capacity to maintain order over men even in terrible conditions  No director of the Virginia Company anticipated that his talents as a military organizer would be necessary or even critical in Jamestown  Fortress provides defense against Native Americans (great chief Powhatan)  Continent was INHABITED – was not empty as Europeans considered it to be  Women could not assist in defense of the expedition, children would be a burden – was a military expedition with only a handful of soldiers • Most of the settlers were the youngest sons of English noblemen • They discover o inhabited land o area close to Jamestown has been depleted of game o waters close to Jamestown have been fished, the land is sandy, shells not gems are on the beach o the weather is not great o they will have to do WORK • John Smith created the rule that those who will not work will not eat o Also, those who refuse to work, should be inspired

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